Dutch Masters: from Rembrandt to van Gogh…

Colours, flat landscapes, tradition; this was the inspiration for the Dutch Masters of Holland. This post takes you to the world of Dutch Masters.

The Dutch Masters and their paintings are well-known and appreciated all over the world. Paintings such as the ‘Girl with the Pearl Earring’ by Vermeer, ‘The Nightwatch’ by Rembrandt and ‘Starry Nights’ by Vincent van Gogh are some of the most famous paintings in the world. However, their rise to fame was not always an easy one and many of the most famous painters today, did not receive global or even regional recognition until after their death. In fact, the now famous painting ‘Girl with the Pearl Earing’ by Vermeer sold for only 2 Dutch Guilder (1 Euro) during its first auction. Additionally, Van Gogh only sold a handful of paintings during his lifetime and it was not until after his death, that the popularity of his paintings increased. Nowadays, his paintings are some of the most expensive in the world.

In the 17th century the Dutch began to thrive in terms of trade, science and art. With prosperity growing, Holland became an important player in international trade and The Dutch Masters began to evolve in the art world, producing realistic art for the upper-class and tradesmen. The most important genres in this Golden Age for the Dutch were portraits, still life, historical themes and landscapes.

Centuries later, we still celebrate the lives of the great Dutch Masters and rightly so! This year we are commemorating the death of Vincent van Gogh, 125 years after his death. His life is being honoured with high-profile exhibitions and festivities in Holland and beyond. Museums, heritage sites and cultural events have been inspired by Van Gogh to create a fascinating programme for all who want to get to know the painter, his life and work more intimately.

Top places to see the Dutch Masters

• Enjoy the largest Van Gogh collection at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam
• Visit the Kröller-Müller for the second largest Van Gogh collection
• The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam showcases Rembrandt’s ‘The Nightwatch’ as well as a selection of paintings by Vermeer
• The Mauritshuis in The Hague is home to the ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’
• Museums across Holland to see the works of the Dutch masters

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